Saturday, July 28, 2007

I have called you from darkness to light,To live a life, holy devoted unto Me.

Set apart for good works,That I ordained for you before the foundations of the world.

You have been called to be My ambassador,Yet I see you entwined in the cares of this world.

Sin entangles you,Rendering you no longer effective to a world lost in sin.

The sinner examines your life and concludes,No different than I, so I must be a Christian too.

Thy words, thy deeds,Do they reflect Me?

Satan will clamor and shout with glee,He’ll utter hypocrite, liar and sinner too!

Do you hunger for the meat of My word,Is it hidden within your heart?

Will you choose to be conformed by this world,Or receive My promise…be ye transformed and renewed in Me?

Does your heart break…even ache,For that which breaks My heart?

Will you run the race,Strive towards the upward calling?

Finish strong…I beckon you "Come…live a life of no regrets!"

By Susan BuntsJuly 27, 2007

This poem is dedicated to my precious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who called me from darkness to light and death unto life; and to my beloved former Pastor Chuck Obremski…who uncompromisingly taught us the Word of God so that our hearts and minds would be transformed and renewed in Christ Jesus.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

As I wondered why in the world did I decide to change jobs just now…I asked God…“So what do you want me to learn from all of this?”“What’s your purpose…what’s your plan Lord?”God answered…humility!

I knew even before I applied for the job…that there would a day in the not too distant future where I would feel real uncomfortable…and have doubts as to whether I had chosen wisely and done the right thing.I knew that going in.Some sage advice…that I’ve given to others and that was drawn from my own experience was to never evaluate a new job in the first six months to a year.Even when it’s a job you like…you are going to have to learn things and will not feel comfortable and enjoy a new job for a while.

I know that…I’ve been there and done that.Yet at the same time…I had felt God strongly opening that door and leading me in the path to take this job.A job completely different from any others that I’ve held.A lot to learn…from terminology to new tasks and programs.So it was with eyes wide open that I made that change…following the Lords leading.

Well…it took about three weeks for me to really have that week that wiped me out and made me have some doubts.Something I knew would come.This time…it was delayed a bit with the 4th of July holiday…my surgery and people’s vacations.But this week…my training began in earnest…and I had a few days where I just wanted to cry because I felt so inadequate and spent.

Thankfully the formal training was for about 2 ½ days.The thing that makes training so draining is that I have to concentrate so fully during that time.My attention has to be very focused and I need to interact with my trainer non stop.

Since this job is so different than other work I’ve done…and I’m not yet comfortable…there are times I feel like a real dummy.At the same time…I remind myself, “Susan…you’ve been there before.In time…you will come to know the terminology, the programs and the job.Stay focused, learn and do your job well.”

This week I started to see why God had moved me in this direction.But that didn’t stop my discomfort and questions for both God and me.Not exactly sure when, where and how God might answer my questions…but I felt drawn to pick up a CD album by Beth Moore which I had purchased not too long ago.I had picked it up at the recommendation of my friend Ruth and had listened to the album shortly after I had received it.In fact…I listened several times…and God had used it to minister to and helped me be encouraged to forge ahead into the unknown of a new job.

The thing I love about God’s word is how fresh it is…and able to minister to me fresh each time I pick it up.How many times…I’ve picked up the Bible and read a passage…one I’ve read before and I’ll see something I’ve never noticed or paid attention to before.But this time it jumps out at me.

Beth Moore’s studying “Crossing Your River of Fear” held a different message for me this time.This go around…God used it to answer my question as to His purpose in taking me down this new path.The answer was to better learn humility.To learn to humble myself under the mighty hand of God.

In this study Beth shows us in God’s word that He wants us to “Take Courage”.Not be courageous…or suck it up…and be courageous on our own strength and power…but to “Take Courage”.He offers it to us just as He did Joshua when he as about to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.Just a Jesus offered it to the disciples when they were in a stormy sea about to go under.

But Jesus immediately said to them: "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." – Matthew 14:27

As Jesus had sent the disciples out in the boat ahead of him…and He knew a storm was forthcoming…He knew I would feel quite overwhelmed in my new circumstance.Just as Jesus knew He was God Almighty and He was able to still the seas at His command…He knows that He is able to still the stormy seas of my life and circumstances.

He also has a purpose in these circumstances to cause me to look to Him for help.Not turn to myself and muster up the courage I need.But instead to fall upon my knees before Him and take my fears and concerns before the throne of God…take them to the God who cares for me.The God who knew each day of my life…before the foundations of the world were laid.The God who knit me together in my mother’s womb.That God.That same God…who sent His son Jesus Christ to take my sins upon Him and die upon the cross…so that my sins might be forgiven.That God…my Savior who willingly died upon the cross so that one day I might be with Him in heaven…where He went to prepare a place for me.That God…the very God of the Bible.

He desires a relationship with me…and He will use my circumstances to draw me to Himself.Now this will sound sacrilegious to some…but please know in now way is it intended to be that.But if something similar was done by a human being we would consider it kind of sick…kind of like “Munchausen’s Syndrome”.But it’s not.

I can be assured that God is good and what He does is good.That He has a purpose and a plan.Like a parent who allows their child to fail…so that they learn humility and character that they would never learn with success…God allows me to get in over my head into something that is His will…so that I will learn that I need to turn to Him.That I can be strong in the Lord.That God alone is able and sufficient to sustain me and uphold me in all circumstances.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. – 1 Peter 5:6

God desires that I be humble so that I will listen to Him and turn to Him.If God is to use me...it is imperative that I be humble and learn to follow His instructions.It critical that I not take the glory for myself…but instead turn any praise, honor and glory over to God.

I can see quite clearly in the past year…God has used circumstances in my life to bring me to and end of myself.He has used recent events to help me learn to be obedient to Him and to seek to hear Him and follow His direction.

Well…here I am again.Thankfully I have a recent example in which I did it right.The question is…will I do so this time?Will I have an ear to hear God?Will I desire to follow His lead…even if it takes me through some uncomfortable valleys?

Yesterday I was struck by the thought that life is really learning about letting go…and accepting losses.The sooner I can do that and do it gracefully…the better.The sooner I can let go and trust God…even when circumstances don’t make sense from a human perspective…the better.The more I can reach out to God…taking my needs and hurts and pain to Him…the more He can use me.Will I resist being shaped by God?Or will I submit to God?

Willingly and knowingly submitting to God is so much easier and less painful that it is to be humbled by God and being made to submit.

“His wisdom is profound, his power is vast. Who has resisted him and come out unscathed?” – Job 9:4

Make no mistake…there will come a day in which God will demand our submission.The sooner I can learn to trust God and submit when He calls me to…the better off I’ll be.

It is written: " 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'everykneewillbow before me; every tongue will confess to God.' – Romans 14:11

So it is with gratitude that I humble myself under the mighty hand of God…and seek His wisdom and help for my current circumstances…knowing that my God is a big God and is more than able to handle what concerns me today.Praise God!

And God isable to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. – 2 Corinthians 9:8

Now to him who isable to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. – Ephesians 3:20

Psalm 18:1-6

1 I love you, O LORD, my strength.

2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

3 I call to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies.

4 The cords of death entangled me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.

5 The cords of the grave coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me.

6 In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.

Humble:1: not proud or haughty : not arrogant or assertive2: reflecting, expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or submission humble apology>3 a: ranking low in a hierarchy or scale : insignificant, unpretentious

One might ask…what good can come out of being around negative, critical and condemning people?In fact there have been times I asked myself that question.But after being in that position for a time or even a season of my life…I’ve walked away saying “Thank You Lord for that valuable lesson”.

There is nothing like being around people who are continually negative to make you see the positive.Nothing like hearing constant complaining to make you want to praise God and offer thanksgiving.Nothing like regularly having a negative picture painted…to instead make you see the bright side of things.

It’s the lazy man or woman who is continually negative.That takes no effort whatsoever.It’s just going with the flow.If you are not moving and swimming against the current of circumstances and negativity…then you might as well be dead in the water…because the consequences will be the same…or worse.

It’s bad enough when I experience negativity with unbelievers.But it pales in comparison to when I encounter a negative, critical, condemning spirit in a Christian…it is particularly unlovely.Mix it together with a little gossip…and that Christian is now an instrument in the hands of Satan.An instrument who will bring dishonor to Christ Jesus.Not only does the world see them as someone whose life is no different than their own…but now they can accurately toss out the word hypocrite.Guess what…they are right!

It causes division in the body of Christ.As a Christian…it’s being downright lazy.It’s easy and takes zero effort for me to have a negative, critical, condemning spirit.That spirit is usually exercised when I’m looking at others and not myself.When I spend time looking at others and criticizing them…I don’t have to look at myself.If instead I actually take the time to look at myself and examine myself in light of the Word of God…I might start seeing that there are things that I need to jettison…or bring under control in obedience to the mighty hand of Christ.The question is…will I do so?

To do so can be painful.It means that there will be some days ahead filled with repentance.It means I may have to examine some painful memories, hurts, disappointments.I’ll have to ask myself…why am I like that?Why am I always critical…negative…condemning?Or why do I think its okay to gossip about so and so…and stand in judgment of them?

It’s a whole lot easier to be negative, critical and condemning than it is to examine myself and see some ugly stuff buried deep.But when I see the damaging effects on the body of Christ, of the bad reputation it brings to Christians and of the chilling effect it brings to an unbelieving world that has already rejected Christ…do I have any choice other than to fall on my knees before Christ Jesus?Confess my grievous sins, repent, grieve over the damage I’ve done, receive forgiveness and most importantly…go and sin no more.

Lord help us please…help me please!When I’m walking in that critical, negative, condemning, gossipy spirit…I’m blinded to the truth in the Word of God.If I’m doing that…how can I say I’m walking in love.Can I accurately state that walking in such a manner comports with the wisdom and godly counsel of the word of God…such as the book of James?Is my tongue bridled?Isn’t my mouth…just a reflection of my heart?If I’m negative and critical all the time…bottom line…isn’t that being critical of God too?

Isn’t a negative, critical, condemning spirit…essentially walking in pride and arrogance?In Proverb 16…God clearly tells me that there are six things that He hates:

16 There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him:

17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,

18 a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil,

19 a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.

It’s not a mystery what’s detestable to God…He reveals it quite clearly .He also reveals His will on how we should act.The question is…will I choose to listen and obey?

God further warns me in is His word…that gossip separates friends.If gossip does that to friends…what praytell does it do to the body of Christ?

28 A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends. Proverbs 16:28

God provides a better way and a better answer.He tells us that we are to “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”– 1 Peter 5:6

What might that humbling look like?After confession and repentance…how about bringing that person before the throne of God in prayer…instead of gossiping or sharing a negative report…praying for them?But that requires choosing to yield myself to God.It requires choosing restraint, thought and making an effort…instead of going with the flow of pride and arrogance and choosing to undercut and undermine someone…someone for whom Christ died.

When I put my thinking cap on…or better yet…open my Bible…I don’t see stories about Jesus going around being critical and negative…or always complaining.Does that mean he never got angry?Does that mean he was a Harvey Milktoast when it came to confronting people?Not by a long shot.Jesus was very direct with people…and usually reserved His sharpest criticism for the religious folks.Calling them white washed tombstones and overturning the money changers table in the temple.

Can you imagine Jesus gossiping about people?“Hey John…did you see what Peter did?Talk about opening mouth inserting foot.Wait till you hear what he did!”

No…instead our Lord’s confrontation was very direct, deliberate and personal.It was directed to those who needed it.But it was done one on one…not behind their back.And Jesus stood up for the defenseless…for those whom the religious looked down upon.When the Pharisees criticized the woman who worshiped Jesus by pouring the jar of expensive perfumed nard over His feet…Jesus declared her sins were forgiven…and that her actions would be talked about wherever the Word of God was preached.Praise God!

When I think about those Christians whom I find lovely in spirit…not one of them has a negative, critical, condemning spirit.Instead they walk in love…and are open and embrace people around them.With a hug or in lifting someone in prayer before our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus.

Who you’ll likely see reaching out to the negative and critical people is one of those who are lovely in spirit.Those who radiate the Spirit of Christ within them.Because they know who needs love more than the unlovely?Who more than they needs prayers?Who more than they need friends?The lovely in spirit try to walk as Christ did…Christ who said a friend sticks closer than a brother.

So when I see that negative person…that critical person…the one who is ready to offer a word of condemnation…ought I not to reach out to them in friendship?Keep them prayer…knowing full well of the power of God’s word to transform lives.Even lives that seem stuck in the muck and mire of the ugliness of life.

Negative, critical, condemning and gossip...those traits just don’t sound like the fruit of the spirit that the Bible mentions.Instead those sound more like the fruit of my sinful, fallen, fleshly, rebellious spirit.The sins that Christ died for on the cross.Because He bore my sins…I don’t have to bear them any longer.So why would I choose to walk in that manner any longer.If I’m a Christian…I’ve been freed.Freed to walk in the Spirit of Christ.Free to bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit…from He Who transforms my life from within.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23

Thank You Jesus that I am no longer bound by those sins which once entangled me.Thank You Jesus…that I am freed…that my sins were nailed to the cross.Whether I am young or old…I am a new creation in Christ.Because You died and rose again…I’m free to leave those sins at the foot of the cross.I am freed to put off the old…and put on the new man in Christ.Amen…so be it!

“You, however, did not come to know Christ that way.Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:20-32

Monday, July 16, 2007

The last week or two has been a very busy time…and I’ve not been able to sit down and put my fingers to the keyboard.Lots of things were happening…so I feel filled to the brim and overflowing with thoughts and emotions.

Two weeks ago I started in my new role at work.It feels very odd to be the rookie…and not know the job or the people.Although I stayed within the company…it’s a whole new area of the business and I’m starting at square one.Learning from the ground up.I’m anxious and chomping at the bit to learn and be productive.I’m assured within a few weeks…I’ll be very busy…but for the time being things are starting out slow.

All in all that worked out okay because a week after starting my new job…I had to have cataract surgery. This was the second cataract surgery I’ve had…this time on the right eye.I was off for a couple of days…and was able to return back to work on Wednesday.

It’s rather amazing when you think of it.I had surgery on my eye and was able to return to work after a day’s rest.I can tell I’m getting older because this time…I felt quite tired for several days afterwards.Since the pace at work…is still slow that didn’t cause a problem.

Even though it’s unusual for someone in their 40’s to have cataracts…I’ve come to believe that it’s not such a bad thing to have surgery at this age.In talking to others who are older and have had the same surgery…they had complications or didn’t heal as quickly.All in all…my surgery, recovery and healing have gone very well…thank you Lord!

With my new job…I get to go into work an hour later…which means I can now take my full one hour walk before work.What a difference that makes.I feel better, less stressed.Even though I have a longer commute now that we’ve moved to our new offices…I invest my time well by listening to CDs….mostly Bible study CDs.

Talk about God bringing you the right message at the right time.A few weeks ago…I started listening to Beth Moore’s “Fruit of the Spirit” Bible study.It seemed like each lesson was something I needed to apply that day.God really ministered to my spirit in His perfect timing.

The week I was facing some blatant rejection I was taught about love.Beth Moore taught in the fruit of the spirit on love…that “love never fails”.Or to be more precise love never falls to the ground.If we act and respond in love…and that love is rejected…Jesus is there to catch it.It doesn’t fall to the ground, He see, He cares and catches it.It does matter to Jesus...we matter to Jesus.

I’m reminded at such a time…that if God is for me…who can be against me?Will I encounter people who will oppose me?Most assuredly…as we all do.But in comparison to the love and acceptance from my Lord and Savior…man’s rejection pales in comparison.As the Apostle Paul taught us…it doesn’t even tip the scales in comparison to the eternal rewards and the love of my God and Savior Jesus Christ.

It matters less who I am compared to whose I am.Since I was bought and paid for by the blood of Christ Jesus on the cross….I am called to respond rightly…even when faced with rejection.When I do so…God can use that to plant seeds that will come to fruition in His perfect timing.If I fail to do so…and act out of my flesh…I will be giving the enemy material to work with.I hate letting my enemies win!May it never be!

If I’m to be strong…I need to be strong in the Lord and not rely on my own strength and wisdom.

“Be strong in the Lord and the strength of His might.” – Ephesians 6:10

Now that is a prescription for success…and for perseverance and steadfastness.

Each day while driving to work…I’d put in a new CD.Sometimes listening to the same CD a couple of times.I don’t mind telling you…that the tears have flowed a number of times.But all in all they were tears of release…renewal, refreshing and cleansing.

My precious friend Ruth has lent me the DVDs for this same study…and as much as I love listening to the CDs…watching the DVDs makes the study more personal and intimate.This is one Bible study that I will be revisiting again and again.

One of the things I don’t like is when I finish up a good Bible study or book.I don’t like because I miss it…it’s become a part of my life.Also because I have a hard time deciding what I should move on to next.But this time…I felt God’s leading to a very specific study by Beth Moore called “Breaking Free”.Just started it today…and I look forward to what God will teach me and how He will reveal Himself, minister to me and meet me right where I am at.

I remember when I first heard Beth Moore speaking.Ruth had spoken highly of her teaching so I listened.I could tell that she was a good teacher…but I just didn’t connect with her then.I even read her book “Believing God”.But when I revisited Beth’s teachings later…suddenly there was that connection.It was through her new book “Get Out of that Pit” that I would connect.Beth was one of the people whom God would use to reach out to me at this season of my life.So now I’m feasting on the word of God through this wonderful teacher…who is still relatively new to me.So I have much to discover and look forward to this part of the adventure.

What I love about Beth is her excitement and passion for God, for His Word and her love for people.I love her transparency.She isn’t afraid to share from deep inside…the good, the bad, the silly and the serious.Things that we’ve all felt inside to varying degrees…but maybe we aren’t brave enough…(or is it foolish enough?)…to speak out.But not Beth.She is brave, open and transparent…and I get to benefit as God uses this precious woman to touch my life with His love and give me a sneak peek at His wonderful plans that He has for my life.

It seems like it’s been an eventful time in many respects.It’s been an emotional time…even more so as I reflect back on the past year or two.Things that a year ago I would have said I couldn’t bear to live without…I can now see God’s hand and plan in removing.I’m even grateful…since I see the work that He is doing in me and how He is revealing Himself to me as I seek Him.

To remind myself of God’s faithfulness and His work in me…I’ve made a new bracelet that I wear daily.It say’s “CONSECRATE”…and I wear it to remind myself of the Bible verse that God gave me as the new year began.“Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.” –Joshua 3:5.

Can I get a witness?Indeed He has.But more than that…it’s a present active participial kind of living.He continually does amazing things.Just think…He’s called me to share and participate in that plan.Now is that phenomenal or what?Amen, amen and praise God!

Thursday, July 05, 2007

When does valid concern and criticism about an important issue become a critical spirit?At what point does it cross a line?Even when the matter being addressed is something of importance and close to the heart of God?

I’m not sure I know the exact answer to that question.But I do know that God had reined me in this week in the area pertaining to my church.

God in His world counsels us that we are united in the body of Christ not divided.

“I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought.” – 1 Corinthians 1:10

“God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:24-26

Our church, KindredCommunityChurch, has been going through a time of transition for some time now…since our beloved Pastor Chuck Obremski went home to be with our Lord.That was back on September 18, 2005…almost two years now.

In that intervening time…Kindred began the search for a new Sr. Pastor who will be our Pastor, teacher, spiritual leader and friend.God has used the time since Chuck’s death to prepare us for the man whom He has called.At times I’ve been anxious to see who that man is.At times…I’ve been very much at peace knowing that God is in control…and that in His perfect timing God will raise up our new Pastor.

Since we don’t have a Sr. Pastor…we have had a number of men...pastors, teachers and leaders in the Christian community preaching on Sundays.Like the well known disagreements that churches can get in to over music styles…there has been differing opinions on those who have preached over these almost two years.

But I guess whether we favor the speaker that week or have someone else that we resonate with the one thing we can all give thanks for is God’s provision.We can also give Jesus Christ…praise, honor and glory for how He has kept the body of Christ at Kindred knit together.That’s not to say that some have not left to attend other churches in the intervening time.The truth be told…some have.But for the most part…we remain in tact and committed to Jesus Christ, each other and sharing the Gospel message with a lost and dying world.

Another thanksgiving and praise should go to God who has raised up committed members of Kindred’s Pastoral Search Committee.Because of their dedication and sacrifice and commitment to finding the man whom God has called…I am confident that one day (hopefully soon) we will have our Pastor.A thank you must go to also to our Elders for their commitment to finding the man of God who is committed to deep, uncompromised teaching of God’s word.Someone who will teach us the meat of the Word…not baby food that will not nourish the body of Christ.

No where was that more evident than recently when the search looked like it might be coming to an end…but for reasons that remain confidential…a decision was not made regarding those candidates.While disappointed…I was somewhat relieved to know that they were not going to settle just because we are desperate.That they weren’t going to go with the next pretty face or with the one who would weave stories that would tickle our ears and makes us feel good…but in the end leave us empty and without hope.

Would the Search Committee and the Elders like this to be over?You beta ya!Are they tired of bearing a heavy responsibility…that has not yet ended?You beta ya!Are they undergoing spiritual warfare and attacks from the enemy?You beta ya!Do they feel the burden when our congregations speaks up and shares concerns about it taking so long…or if a speaker is not everyone’s cup of tea…or if they see members starting to go elsewhere?You beta ya they do!But more than that…these godly men and women are committed to finding the man whom God has called to be our new Sr. Pastor.

I think it’s also time to give thanks to fellow members of Kindred for remaining committed to Christ Jesus and each other.It makes a big difference when we are involved with one another and connected.That became clear to me recently when I thought on Sunday…I might like to go and hear a preacher at a church that I’ve heard is a great Bible study teacher.But I realized…that gee wiz…I couldn’t because it was my week to serve in this area or that area.

That interconnectedness is also apparent when someone is on vacation or out of town…and their presence is greatly missed.Someone not being there is noticed.The love for other believers is made clear when people will come up and ask how you are doing if there has been a recent prayer request on your behalf or that of a family member or friend.

One of the things I love best about my church…is that it’s multigenerational.We have grandparents, parents and children of the same family that attend.Yet…there room for that person who doesn’t have any family…or if it’s just them or their spouse.Everyone is loved and welcomed in.

So this week…when I had a concern…and it was clear that God was reining me in to not necessarily speak my mind…I thought that perhaps He has another message instead.

Is God testing out hearts?Does He desire for us to cry out to Him?To go to Him in confident desperation…knowing He is able in His perfect timing to bring our new Pastor?To seek God and His will for our church?To draw close to Him…to have a listening ear for Him?Is He testing our hearts?Will we remain steadfast in studying the word of God?We will go to midweek studies?Will we study God’s word...only when it’s convenient?Or will we put in that extra push?Will we be committed to one another?Will we be divisive and back biting or grateful and committed?

I guess it’s a fine line to walk.There may be a time to speak up and share concerns with the Elders.There may also a time humble myself under their leadership…because I know of their commitment to finding God’s man.To trust God’s call on their lives as our leaders.Ultimately to trust God and His sovereignty and leadership during this time of transition.

In the mean time…I am grateful for God’s care and provision for our church.I must say…I’m prejudice…because I love the teaching of some of the men from Kindred…be it Dave Dunn…my favorite Bible study teacher…or Jack Grogger and Joe Rispoli godly leaders who work with the youth of our church.No matter if it’s one of our homegrown men…or a visiting Pastor…Kindred’s pulpit has never been empty.

Perhaps it’s also a reminder that we as body of Christ need to be praying for the man who will be teaching us from God’s word that week.Knowing that He is able to equip them each week.Knowing that God is also at work in their lives.They may just be passing through for a week or two…and we have a chance to show them the love of Christ.

Not only does God call us to be united, not divided.But He also counsels us that the most important thing is love.

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13

So to answer my opening question…when and where does a valid concern become a critical spirit?I think that when I stop walking in love. When I make it about me…and not about God.When I’m walking in pride…not walking humbly with my God. When I fail to be grateful for God's provisions.

A fine line to walk…but I know of One who will walk it with me.All praise, honor and glory be to Jesus Christ my Lord.Amen!

Now if I may be so bold…if I could ask any Christians reading this post to lift up KindredCommunityChurch and say a prayer for our church that God in His perfect timing will raise up the man of God whom He has called.That we will have ears to hear…and a heart to obey God each step of the way.Thank you so much for your much coveted prayers for my beloved church.

Monday, July 02, 2007

Perhaps it’s because I’m tired of being screamed at while stopped at a signal waiting for the light to turn green…called every name in the book by some peacenik that purports to want peace…but ain’t exactly giving an effective testimony.

Perhaps it’s because I don’t understand why President Bush has supported a failed amnesty bill that would only serve to make matters worse, nor does it contain any realistic way address or correct the issues connected with illegal immigration.

Perhaps it’s because President Bush is about as far away from being a great communicator that Reagan was…and still speak the English language.

Perhaps its Bush’s resolute silence and failure to speak loudly and resoundingly of our successes in Iraq. Seemingly sitting there in silence with a confidence that one day…he will be proved right about Iraq and then the whole world will know…all the while his supporters regularly get verbally attacked.They are trying to fight the good fight…while President Bush remains silent. There are times…I feel like Charlie Brown…and President Bush is Lucy yanking the football just as I go to kick it.What worked 40 or 50 years ago, doesn’t work today’s fast paced, media savvy world.A lie undisputed is believed and must, truly must be refuted with the truth.

Or perhaps it’s because President Bush can’t seem to get 700 plus miles of fence built…as promised…in a country that put man on the moon almost 40 years ago. Or can’t follow the lead of then Governor Pete Wilson who said damn the torpedoes…full speed ahead as he successfully had the 10 Freeway overpass rebuilt following it’s destruction in 1994’s earthquake.Perhaps we need to put Pete in charge of building the fence.What our President and Senators fail to take into account…is not so much the cost of building the fence…but the cost that increases exponentially every day that we delay.Costs that will only continue to mount in the future.

Whatever that “perhaps” is that’s tipped the scale…it’s what caused me to remove the Bush Cheney 2004 bumper stickers from my car. It’s the same thing that caused me to delight in not only declaring “No…I would not send the Republican National Committee or the National Republican Senators Committee” any money…when they called for support to stand up against the Democrats. It’s the reason why I got into a debate with some kid doing fund raising for the NRSC…and was grateful when he finally understood that well was dry. No amount of pressure or persuasion was going to make a difference. The answer was “No” and this girl was sticking to it and my “No” would be respected.

It’s funny because I remember a day…when I was bummed out when I was in a car accident few years back. Not because of the accident…but because my back bumper would no longer hold the original 2000 Bush bumper sticker. It’s ironic…because I know of the successes we are having in Iraq because I’m plugged into some of the most respected and responsible conservative talk radio…with the likes of Dennis Prager and Hugh Hewitt.

I consider myself pretty realistic…and while I hate the idea of people cutting in line and getting away with wrong doing…I do understand that we will likely have some form of amnesty for the illegal aliens from south of the boarder. Make no mistake…cutting in line and being rewarded for it is wrong.Pushing your way in front of people who want to come to this country…but do so legally and respect our laws and sovereignty…just ain’t right.

But until such time that we stop the flow of illegal immigrants coming into the country…we can’t even debate what will be done with those already here.Amnesty without enforcement? How is it that I understand the importance of building the fence…when it seems to eludes the understanding of our President and conservative Republican Senators?What about employer sanctions for those who hire illegal aliens?There isn’t an abundance of people who come to this country illegally who want to be US citizens…instead they are coming for the financial benefits.

Can you tell me why the likes of Trent Lott wants to resort to the 20 year old liberal policy of the “Fairness Doctrine”…just because his constituents hold his feet to the fire when he’s going down the wrong road in supporting a ridiculous amnesty bill. “Trent…would you like any cheese with that whine?”Trent I think you’ve lost touch with who your supporters are…you are biting the proverbial hand that feeds you.

What in the world is happening to the conservative party of mine? Just who the heck am I going to be supporting come election time? Well it ain’t going to be the “liberal”, “progressive”, Democratic Party…even though Ted Kennedy and John McCain seem to be getting along swimmingly.

I ain’t voting for some person who supports abortion rights of the women, conception to up to the point of delivery. The person who thinks it’s okay to stab a baby that’s still in the womb…in the head and suck out their brains. That a baby in the womb is only valuable and deserves life if it’s mother deems it so.I ain’t supporting a person who thinks that murderers ought to live out their natural lives in jail…when their innocent victims lay in their grave. Or worse yet…think that murderers and pedophiles can be released from prison after some therapy “cures them” and after they’ve paid their debt to society. Just how is it that you pay for murdering someone? How can you ever repay society for having sex with countless children just for your sick perverted satisfaction? Or those that think teenage girls should be able to have abortions without their parent’s knowledge and consent? But by golly…if you take an Advil while at school…consider yourself signed up for detention and education on drug use. You know the ones I mean…the same ones that won’t let your daughter have an aspirin for cramps while she’s at school…but will protest and give their support of her right to light up a joint.

We live in a pretty mixed up world….one that is entirely upside down.

But like I told the poor guy that called for Republican fund raising…I’d rather the conservative Republicans fight with all they’ve got and do the right thing and loose then to give in and knuckle under like wimps. It’s pathetic. I now belong to the pathetic party...thats lost it's way.

What party it will be voting with next election? What candidate? I haven’t a clue. But I’ll tell you this…it won’t be persons who hold hands and sing “Kumbaya” with Ted Kennedy.

I use to belong to the Grand Old Party…now I belong to the Gutless Old Party. Or as Dennis Prager refers to it…the Stupid Party. If things keep going that way…I won’t be part of the GOP at all.

Soon it will be “Hasta la bye, bye as I mark my ballot for persons and a party that represents my values and those who uphold the Constitution and laws of this great nation…the United States of America…the greatest country on God’s green earth (to borrow a quote from Michael Medved).

Sword of the Spirit

A Little Something

I’m 57 and though I’m not what I should be, praise God I’m not what I used to be. I spent many years angry at God, running from Him and tried to deny His existence. Through the loving witness of my neighbors the Bocks, I saw a clear picture of God who loves me. At 32, I recognized I was a sinner, repented of my sins and received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I know that God still answers prayers. For many years I prayed for a husband and on the eve of my 49th birthday, God brought Chris Wachtel into my life and 7 months later we were married. I am conservative in my politics, but a former liberal. I even campaigned for Jimmy Carter and I rue that day. I find liberal leftist thinking, while well intentioned, ultimately flawed. I’ve been abundantly blessed by God with gifted pastors and teachers. I’m most grateful for Pastors Philip De Courcy and Chuck Obremski who faithfully taught the Word of God. I've also grown through BSF and CBS Bible Studies. God has recently moved us 1,500 miles from CA to TX. Not sure what the Lord will be doing in us and through us, but I am grateful to be walking with and depending on Him each day.

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My Colors Will Be Clear

I am a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. I have Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I'm a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

I no longer need position, promotions, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded or rewarded. I now live by presence, learn by faith, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My face is set, my gait is fast, my destination is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few. My Guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity.

I won't give up, shut up, let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of the One that gave me life, drew the line in blood for me in the hour of my destiny.

I am one of Christ's remnant people. I belong to Him and none other. All I do to bring this life to another is done because of that blood covenant poured out for me.

I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. I must share will all that one more might hear and be drawn from the flaming darkness that longs to consume. Reach for another, touch but one more!

Until that moment...He will have no problem in recognizing me- my colors will be clear!!!

Not only are the words inspiring but so is the man behind them. The above letter was written by a Pastor in Africa who was undergoing severe persecution. On the eve of his execution he sat down and wrote the above note.